Lagoon Arts & Culture Festival Team

Anthony Mensah - Fesitival Coordinator

I am Anthony Mensah, a festival coordinator based in Victoria, BC. I love bringing people together through experiences that feel meaningful, organized, and full of good energy. My background spans tourism and hospitality management, theatre management, and volunteer coordination, and I enjoy being the person who keeps things moving smoothly behind the scenes. I am passionate about collaboration, supporting creative teams, and helping arts and culture come alive in ways that make people feel connected.

Akina Akiyama - Festival Publicity

I am a Japan-born communications and marketing professional now based in British Columbia, Canada. I relocated from Tokyo, Japan to Canada last August. With experience in business development and public-sector projects, I focus on connecting communities through storytelling and engagement. I am excited to contribute to arts and cultural initiatives through publicity and outreach.

Kristy Charlie - Indigenous Showcase Coordinator

Kristy's traditional name is KĆILTENOT. Kristy is from the W̱SÁNEĆ territory and lives in the territory of the Lekwengen Peoples, and has resided in Victoria for over 20 years now. Kristy has three beautiful daughters, two teenage grandsons and her son is on his journey in the spirit world.

Kristy had recently completed her Bachelors degree in Indigenous Language Revitalization with the University of Victoria. In her spare time she enjoys sewing, beading or crocheting.